Today a father and daughter came into AFSC Iowa. For the purposes of this interview, they wished to remain anonymous. Both came from Africa to America as refugees over five years ago.

The father left behind a wife and 21 children, two of whom currently reside in the United States. He comes to AFSC today seeking help for his broken-apart family. He wants to know what his next step is. Without his family he feels lost and lonely in the United States. He wants to see his family reunited here in the United States, but without citizenship for himself, getting citizenship for his family seems impossible.

The father is unable to read or write. Without those skills he cannot study or pass the citizenship test. The father confided that even if he was able to pass the citizenship test, he does not want citizenship if he cannot also have his family. “His body is here, but his mind and soul are not,” said his daughter.

Her father seeks companionship. He wants the type of companionship that most people take for granted. He wants someone to talk to at the end of the day, someone to confide in. Currently he lives with his daughter, but she is busy with work and her own family. She does not have the proper time to give her father the support he needs.

What is a man to do when stuck between two places? In the United States he is alone, but if he returns to Africa, everything that he has gained in America will be lost.

Who we are

AFSC is a Quaker organization devoted to service, development, and peace programs throughout the world. Our work is based on the belief in the worth of every person, and faith in the power of love to overcome violence and injustice. Learn more

Where we work

AFSC has offices around the world. To see a complete list see the Where We Work page.